Purdue police investigating vandalism as hate crime

April 23, 2013

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. -
Purdue University police are investigating a possible hate crime that occurred
on campus at approximately 9:15 a.m. Tuesday (April 23).

A placard left by
protesters Monday (April 22) as part of a display in front of Hovde Hall was
defaced with a racial slur and a stick figure drawing of a body hanging from a
tree.

Police are investigating
the incident as a hate crime since property was altered or destroyed and the
conduct was apparently motivated by bias.

Dean of Students Danita
Brown said her office also is investigating the action as a violation of the
student code of conduct.

"If a student is
involved, he or she will go through the university disciplinary process and
could face expulsion if found responsible," Brown said.

President Mitch Daniels
said, "Bigotry and hate are neither welcomed nor tolerated at Purdue
University. We welcome those who speak freely, in the open, and with respect
for each individual. Without free discourse, we cannot fulfill our mission.
There is no place at Purdue for those who act from hatred. If you recognize
yourself in this last sentence, you are not welcome at Purdue."

Anyone with information
about the incident is asked to contact the Purdue Police Department at
765-494-8221 or its anonymous tip line at 765-496-3784.